This is an exciting matchup in the featherweight division, featuring the legendary José Aldo against Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315. Aldo, one of the greatest featherweights in MMA history, returns to the octagon against the skilled and promising Zahabi, a fighter known for his technical striking and well-rounded game. This bout marks a crucial moment for both competitors, as Aldo looks to maintain his relevance in the division, while Zahabi looks to prove himself against one of the sport’s best.

José Aldo, a true pioneer in the featherweight division, boasts an impressive MMA career, with 32 wins and 9 losses. Aldo has been known for his brutal leg kicks, elite Muay Thai striking, and strong wrestling defense. His time as the UFC and WEC featherweight champion is a testament to his skill and dominance in the sport. Aldo has faced some of the best in the world and is a seasoned veteran, but he’s recently shown vulnerability, especially in his bantamweight run. After a split decision loss to Mario Bautista in October 2024, Aldo needs a victory here to remain in the upper echelon of the division.

Aiemann Zahabi, the younger brother of famed trainer Firas Zahabi, has made his mark in the bantamweight division. Known for his technical precision and high fight IQ, Zahabi is a dynamic striker with strong fundamentals and an underrated ground game. With a professional record of 12 wins and 2 losses, Zahabi is coming off an impressive unanimous decision win over Pedro Munhoz in November 2024. His only two losses came against seasoned UFC fighters, and his growth has been clear in his recent performances.

The key to victory for Aldo will be his ability to control distance and land powerful strikes, particularly his leg kicks and body work. Zahabi, on the other hand, will need to maintain a steady pace, avoid Aldo’s early power, and look to outpoint his opponent with clean, precise striking while mixing in his grappling if necessary.

José Aldo – Last 5 Fights

1. Loss vs. Mario Bautista – Split Decision (Oct 5, 2024)
2. Win vs. Jonathan Martinez – Unanimous Decision (May 4, 2024)
3. Loss vs. Merab Dvalishvili – Unanimous Decision (Aug 20, 2022)
4. Win vs. Rob Font – Unanimous Decision (Dec 4, 2021)
5. Win vs. Pedro Munhoz – Unanimous Decision (Aug 7, 2021)

Aiemann Zahabi – Last 5 Fights

1. Win vs. Pedro Munhoz – Unanimous Decision (Nov 2, 2024)
2. Win vs. Javid Basharat – Unanimous Decision (Mar 2, 2024)
3. Win vs. Aori Qileng – KO (Punches) (Jun 10, 2023)
4. Win vs. Ricky Turcios – Unanimous Decision (Jul 9, 2022)
5. Win vs. Drako Rodriguez – KO (Punch) (Feb 20, 2021)

Prediction

José Aldo def. Aiemann Zahabi via Unanimous Decision (29-28 x3)